Water Damage Carpet Cleaning: Unsanitary vs. Sanitary
While water damaged carpet can cost you a great deal of money, it can also put your health at risk. Discovering the source of the water leak that’s causing your carpet water damage is very important, as it will tell you whether or not you can go ahead with carpet water damage restoration, or if you simply need a carpet replacement, which is usually done in the case of “black water” in your carpet. Black water is essential untreated sewage that contains hazardous bacteria and viruses, which can be extremely dangerous to your family and your pets.
If the water damage in your carpet is fairly clean, or only very slightly contaminated, then a water restoration can be done. Whatever the type of water damage though, the wet padding underneath your carpet must be discarded because it’s impossible to get clean. Mold grows on a carpet if it remains damp for over 12 hours, so the carpet restoration ought to be done as soon as possible, after the damage has occurred.
Standard Carpet Cleaning Procedures For Water Damage
Assuming you don’t have any “black water” in your carpet, here’s how you can perform a carpet restoration.
- If possible, remove the carpet from the floor and take it outside - If it’s too heavy to move, tear off the padding and keep the carpet elevated using old furniture.
- Start the water clean up - As your carpet airs out, remove the standing water with a mop or wet vacuum cleaner, then disinfect the floor by scrubbing it thoroughly with a detergent and bleach solution.
- Ventilate - It’s vital that you ventilate the room where the water damage took place. Open all doors and windows (weather-permitting, of course) This way, the humidity will be reduced, and things will dry up more quickly.
- Fans - Use fans and AC to increase air mobility and lower humidity, as well.
- After 12 hours - Your carpet ought to be dry enough to lay down flat again. Continue to keep air circulating, as much as possible.
Safety For “Black Water” Carpet Cleaning
If your carpet has been damaged from unsanity water (like from the toilet or otherwise), or if there is already noticeable mold, it’s best to call a professional carpet cleaning service. They have special industrial equipment that will restore your carpet, but you can also opt for a complete carpet replacement, as well. Talk to your local carpet contractors, and they’ll advice you on which option to go with.
It’s not advised that you do an unsanitary water carpet restoration on your own, but if you must, it’s important that you take all safety precautions. Before you begin, make sure you bandage up any open wounds or scratches you might have. Then put on protective gloves, goggles, and rubber boots. When you’re done with the clean-up, wash your hands thoroughly and apply an antibiotic ointment to scratches, for good measure.
Some of your home goods might be salvageable, but items made of porous material like stuffed toys, upholstered furniture, books, paper products, and medical supplies will have to be disposed of, unfortunately. It may be difficult to do, but it’s for your health, and what could be more important?
If you’re interested in a professional carpet water damage restoration, don’t hesitate to contact Atlanta Carpet Cleaners, your number one carpet cleaners in Atlanta, and the surrounding areas.
